Exploration of the Relationship between Self-Esteem, Commitment, and Verbal Aggressiveness in Romantic Dating Relationships

摘要

Using sociometer theory (Leary, 1999), this study investigated the relationships between argumentativeness and verbal aggressiveness, self and partner's perceived commitment levels, and self-esteem within romantic dating relationships. Survey results (n=152) indicated that 1) a moderate relationship between one's self-esteem and one's perceived partner's commitment level existed, 2) a positive correlation between one's self-esteem and level of self-commitment existed, 3) self-esteem was negatively correlated with verbal aggressiveness, and 4) self-commitment did not mediate the relationship between self-esteem and verbal aggressiveness. Discussion of these findings and their significance are reviewed.